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Motor oil recycling

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April 19, 2005

The weather has been gorgeous these past couple of weekend and I'm sure that there's plenty more where they came from. So while we're outside, there are many of us who decide it's a great time to wash our cars or change our oil. If you can do that yourself, more power to you, but let's make sure that you're taking care of the environment while you're at it.

When you're changing your oil at home, make sure that you are draining your oil into a leak-proof pan. If you can, place the used oil back into its original container or a clean resealable plastic container. Remember, motor oil containers are not fit for recycling with your curbside pick up or drop off locations. Both Saco and Biddeford Public Works accept used motor oil. You can drain your oil filters by piercing the filter dome; let your filter drain for at least 12 hours. Used, drained oil filters can go in the trash wrapped in newspaper.

It probably kills people to think of paying for someone to wash your car for you, so, here are some tips for washing your car at home. First, get a nozzle for your hose so that you can stop the flow of water while you're not using it. If you're on City water, this will save you money as well.

Next, make sure that you have biodegradable phosphorus free soap. These soaps are getting easier to find, they will say if they contain phosphorus or not, and whether or not they are biodegradable. Phosphorus is a nutrient that is in many fertilizers which is great for plants but bad for our water supplies because the phosphorus will feed algae once it gets into our water. Algal blooms are those gross blobs of green stuff that make it nasty to swim or boat or fish. And because algae only lives for two weeks, the bacteria that breaks down the algae takes up all of the oxygen that deep water fish need to survive. If you purchase biodegradable soap, this means it will break down before it gets to a water source.

After you get the right kind of soap, find a nice spot on the GRASS to wash your car. This is necessary for a couple reasons: the grass will slow the flow of water so that it doesn't bring any more dirt into the nearest water source; also, the water will have a chance to settle into the ground and water your lawn, and give the soap time to break down. This will also prevent any oil spilled in your driveway from getting into the water.

I always appreciate your input about what's going on in the community. Any questions or comments can be sent to me via email at swojcoski@sacomaine.org or at Saco Public Works at 282-1552.